New Delhi: ‘Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to France is a strategic power play following his successful trip to the United States,’ stated NewsMobile Editor-in-Chief Saurabh Shukla on Friday.
While putting forth his views on the significance of PM Modi’s visit, he emphasized that this visit marks India’s moment to reclaim its position as a dominant global leader, underscoring the country’s glorious presence on the world stage.
In a discussion with Times Now Editor Navika Kumar, Mr. Shukla emphasized that PM Modi’s visit goes beyond defense purchases and economic deals. Referring to PM Modi’s speech, he said, through initiatives like the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) which have boosted the country’s economy, India has set an example for the world to follow. He further said that PM Modi’s emphasis on soft power, tourism promotion, and engaging the Indian diaspora further enhanced India’s global stature
“It would be naïve to think that this visit is only about defense purchases or economic deals. This is India’s financial might coming to the fore during this visit through initiatives like UPI. When PM Modi emphasizes soft power and encourages the
Indian diaspora to attract more tourists, it boosts India’s economy,” stated Shukla.
Drawing from his experience in covering diplomatic affairs, Mr. Shukla underscored the visit’s significance, highlighting the convergence of mutual interests between India and France, thereby acknowledging India’s growing global influence.
“In diplomacy and foreign policy, it’s always about mutual interests. It’s about India’s mutual interest coinciding with the world, with France. The French President recognizes India’s global might today, and India and France have shared global convergence for a long time. With PM Narendra Modi at the helm, it has become even stronger. Every Indian today should be proud of the applause and warm welcome our Prime Minister is receiving in France. This is a moment of pride for every Indian,” asserted Saurabh Shukla.
PM Modi’s visit to France not only strengthens strategic ties but also highlights India’s aspirations for global leadership. It reaffirms India’s position as a trusted and reliable partner in the international arena. The visit paves the way for enhanced cooperation in defense, trade, technology, and culture, fostering a stronger India-France partnership.
PM Modi highlights ‘mutual trust’ between India & France
During the ongoing visit, PM Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the mutual trust between India and France. Macron expressed pride in the historic contributions of Indian troops, noting the presence of the Punjab Regiment in Paris. The leaders reiterated their commitment to finding solutions for global crises, underscoring the collaborative approach.
PM Modi emphasized France as a natural partner in India’s developmental journey and announced the preparation of a roadmap for the next 25 years. The visit primarily focuses on defense cooperation, cementing the mutual trust shared between the two nations, with France serving as a crucial partner for India’s defense requirements.
Discussions during the visit encompassed various areas of cooperation, including defense, steel, space, energy, civil nuclear technology, and the International Solar Alliance. The leaders also explored possibilities for co-production, co-development, and the export of defense equipment to third countries. Cooperation in sports, Indo-Pacific affairs, and regional security challenges further strengthened the bilateral partnership.
PM Modi’s prestigious recognition with the Grand Cross of the Legion of Honour, France’s highest civilian and military honor, exemplifies his esteemed position on the global stage, elevating India’s prestige worldwide.